Contents
Description
Dactylorhiza Maculata Subsp. Maculata, commonly known as Heath Spotted Orchid, is a flowering perennial plant that belongs to the Orchidaceae family. It is native to Europe and grows in moist meadows, heaths, and bogs. The plant blooms from June to August, producing dense spikes of pink-purple flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Dactylorhiza |
Appearance
Dactylorhiza Maculata Subsp. Maculata can grow up to 30-60 cm tall and has a basal rosette of leaves. The leaves are oval-shaped, dark green, and have prominent black spots on them. The flowers are arranged in dense spikes, and each spike can have up to 50 flowers. The flowers are pink-purple, and the lip of the flower is white with purple spots. The plant has a distinctive vanilla-like fragrance that attracts pollinators.
Care Guide
Water
Dactylorhiza Maculata Subsp. Maculata needs regular watering during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. During the winter, the plant can be kept dry.
Fertilization
The plant does not require fertilization, but a slow-release fertilizer can be applied during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Soil
The plant prefers slightly acidic soil that is moist and well-draining. A mixture of sand, peat, and perlite can be used to create a suitable soil mix.
Sunlight
Dactylorhiza Maculata Subsp. Maculata prefers partial shade and can tolerate full sun if the soil is kept moist.
Hardiness Zones
The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dactylorhiza Maculata Subsp. Maculata is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. Aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap can help prevent pest infestations.
Habitat
Dactylorhiza Maculata Subsp. Maculata is native to Europe and can be found in moist meadows, heaths, and bogs. It prefers slightly acidic soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q. Can Dactylorhiza Maculata Subsp. Maculata be grown indoors?
A. No, the plant requires partial shade and cannot be grown indoors.
Q. How often should Dactylorhiza Maculata Subsp. Maculata be watered?
A. The plant should be watered regularly during the growing season and kept dry during the winter.
Q. What is the hardiness zone for Dactylorhiza Maculata Subsp. Maculata?
A. The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
Q. How can I prevent fungal diseases in Dactylorhiza Maculata Subsp. Maculata?
A. Regular inspection and treatment with fungicides can help prevent fungal diseases in the plant.
Related Plants
- Dactylorhiza Fuchsii
- Dactylorhiza Majalis
- Dactylorhiza Incarnata
- Dactylorhiza Sambucina
References
- “Dactylorhiza maculata subsp. maculata.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/11779/Dactylorhiza-maculata-subsp-maculata/Details.
- “Dactylorhiza maculata subsp. maculata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c707.
- “Dactylorhiza maculata subsp. maculata.” Plant Finder, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:985475-1.
